Tech glitch, weather, and crew shortage: What caused IndiGo flight delays and cancellations

IndiGo has faced major disruptions to its operations over the past two days, leading to a spate of flight delays and cancellations across the country. In a statement issued on Thursday, the airline acknowledged the challenges and deeply apologized to customers for the inconvenience caused.

“Several unforeseen operational challenges, including minor technical glitches, schedule changes associated with the winter season, adverse weather conditions, increased congestion in the flight system and implementation of updated crew roster rules (flight duty time limits) have had a negative ripple effect on our operations in a way that could not have been anticipated,” an IndiGo spokesperson said in a statement.

To contain the disruption and restore stability, the airline has begun calibration adjustments to its schedules, the spokesperson added. “These measures will remain in place for the next 48 hours and will allow us to normalize our operations and gradually restore punctuality across the network.”

The statement added: “Our teams are working around the clock to alleviate customer discomfort and ensure operations stabilize as quickly as possible. Furthermore, alternative travel arrangements are being offered to affected customers to reach their destinations or receive refunds, as applicable.”

The unrest on Wednesday led to the cancellation of more than 70 flights, especially from Bengaluru and Mumbai airports, according to news agency PTI.

Sources told the news agency that crew shortages were the main reason behind the cancellations. The shortage, which worsened on Wednesday, was compounded by the second phase of FDTL norms introduced by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

These new rules, which limit the number of night landings and extend weekly rest periods, have created operational difficulties for IndiGo, which operates a significant portion of its flights during night hours.

“IndiGo has been facing acute crew shortage since the implementation of Phase II of FDTL norms, leading to cancellations and major delays in its operations through airports,” an official told PTI. The airline’s on-time performance at six major domestic airports fell to 35% on Tuesday, with other airlines such as Air India and SpiceJet performing better, according to Civil Aviation Ministry data.

The introduction of the second phase of FDTL norms in November, which limits night landings to two from six previously, has proven to be a challenge for IndiGo, which operates a large fleet and relies heavily on night flights. The new rules, though initially opposed by airlines, including IndiGo and Air India, came into force following the Delhi High Court’s directions.

While the first phase began in July, the second phase, which included night landing restrictions, was implemented in November. IndiGo had earlier requested a phased implementation of these rules, citing the need for additional crew members to meet the new requirements.

IndiGo operates approximately 2,100 flights daily and has a fleet of 416 aircraft, of which 366 are operational and 50 are parked as of December 2, 2025.

(With inputs from PTI)